Posted by Fred on June 18, 2000 at 17:56:53:
I'm looking for a replacement starter idler gear for my Savage. This is the largest of the three starter gears, mounted directly behind the starter clutch and alternator.
A tooth broke on mine, which lodged between the main starter gear and the secondary idler gear - breaking a chunk out of the crankcase where the secondary gearshaft fits in. I've found someone who says he can weld the crankcase - building up the broken piece and then reboring the shaft hole.
There's no Savage's at any of the local junkyards (one says he had a chance at buying one a while ago, but it had the same problem mine does now). I'm afraid to ask the dealer how much they want for it.
In the meantime, I've bought a replacement bike - a 1983 Honda Magna V45! I've been wanting a bigger bike for a while anyway - something a little more useful for touring and two-up riding. The Magna is a lot heavier, but surprisingly nimble for it's size - it's also got 80+ hp so it's a little quicker too. Still doesn't have the character of the big single though.
Fred
PS: I'm located in Ottawa, Canada.